05 Nov The Benefits of Country Living
Location, location, location!” It’s the phrase that’s often used in the real estate industry when describing the most important part of deciding where you should live. Here at B.E.C. Custom Homes, we get to craft dream homes on all types of lots in different locations all over the CSRA. We meet many homeowners who want to live in the community of a close-knit neighborhood. Some want to live in subdivisions with neighbors nearby but on larger lots for privacy. And others want nothing more than to be far out in the country, surrounded by as nature as far as the eye can see.
While a case can be made for all of these locations alike, one of our recently finished projects has us really thinking about all the wonderful things that come along with country living. City living has many advantages, but country living can provide mental and even physical health payoffs to those who choose to reside there.
692 Heggies Ridge is a brand new home we recently finished in Appling, GA. With 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, this beautiful 3,382 square foot home is situated on five acres of land – and we can’t help thinking about all the benefits of living in the country that these new homeowners will be enjoying for years to come. Here are just a few:
Fresh air – There’s nothing quite like breathing in fresh country air, almost entirely devoid of exhaust fumes and other toxic air pollutants. Good for the lungs, and good for the soul!
Privacy – Living in the country affords homeowners a great deal of privacy. Going outdoors without seeing people, or even hearing a car go by for long periods of time, is commonplace in rural areas.
Wide open spaces for the kids – Children who grow up in the country tend to play outdoors more than those who live in more crowded areas. There’s more available space to play ball, ride bicycles, and play hide-and-go-seek – which means less screen time for kids who might otherwise be glued to a television, iPad, cell phone, or gaming device. Recent research has actually shown that children with ADHD who spend time in nature regularly have increased attention spans later. Many parents also tend to feel that their children are safer when playing in more rural outdoor areas.
Lower crime rates – Statistically, life in the country is considerably safer than in urban and suburban areas. Crime rates in rural areas are significantly lower than those in cities.
Feeling – and being – closer to nature – Falling asleep to the sound of crickets chirping and frogs croaking, and waking up to birds singing… it doesn’t just sound more relaxing, it’s proven to actually be relaxing to our minds and bodies, and to improve our overall wellbeing. Studies have repeatedly shown that being in nature can reduce anger, fear, and stress. It also increases pleasant feelings like calmness and serenity. Researchers have found that nature also contributes to your physical wellbeing: it can reduce blood pressure, lower your heart rate, decrease muscle tension, and even lessen production of stress hormones.
How about you? Do these awesome benefits make you want to pack your family up and start anew in the country? Or do the conveniences and camaraderie of suburban life sound more appealing to you? (We know there’s a lot to be said for being able to borrow some eggs from your neighbor, or make a Target run without driving half an hour to get there!) The good news is, no matter where you’d want to build your dream home, B.E.C. Custom Homes has you covered. And if you’ve got your eye on a lot that needs some extra TLC, don’t worry: our team has the expert know-how to turn some of the most uninhabitable lots into cleared, solid foundations for new homes. Give us a call and let’s get started!